Lockheed Martin handed over Germany’s first F-35A fighter jet in Fort Worth, Texas, on 19 September 2026. The handover marks the start of deliveries under Germany’s order for 35 aircraft; it does not mean the jet has arrived in Germany.
The F-35As are intended to replace the German Air Force’s ageing Tornado aircraft, including in Germany’s contribution to NATO’s nuclear-sharing arrangements. Deliveries of the fleet are planned to be completed by 2029.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius highlighted the aircraft’s stealth capabilities, sensors and ability to share information with other forces. NATO Allied Air Command also said the acquisition would strengthen joint training and operations as more member countries introduce the F-35.
Germany’s order is valued at approximately €10 billion. German industry, including Rheinmetall, is involved in the wider F-35 production programme.